You’ve invested heavily in implementing NIST 800-171 controls to safeguard your Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Now, CMMC Level 2 certification is within reach, promising competitive advantage and a stronger position within the defense industrial base. But choosing the right advisory partner is crucial.
The Advisor vs. Assessor Dilemma
While many companies turn to traditional advisory companies for guidance, a more strategic approach is to seek CMMC advisors who are also credentialed as assessors. Here's why:
- Real-world knowledge: Advisors who have undergone assessor training possess invaluable, in-depth understanding of the complexities of CMMC compliance. Further, advisors that have undergone CMMC assessor training and have also participated in the Joint Surveillance Voluntary Assessments (JSVAs) program as assessors can bring that extraordinary hands-on experience to advisory clients in the form of answers to nuanced questions regarding what to expect. Advisors with this level of real-world experience have firsthand knowledge of the assessment process, including the specific requirements, documentation needs, and common pitfalls. They understand likely missteps and often overlooked preparations that can make the difference in whether you pass your certification or not. Engaging an advisor with this practical understanding results in an advisory engagement that provides highly targeted and actionable advice that can significantly accelerate your compliance journey.
- Targeted advice: Their understanding of the assessment process allows them to provide highly specific, actionable recommendations tailored to your organization's unique needs. Instead of generic advice, they can pinpoint areas where you need to improve, suggest specific remediation steps, recommend real world best practices born of out of their JSVA experience, and help you prioritize efforts based on the assessment criteria. This focus ensures that your resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.
- Objectivity: While C3PAOs cannot provide advisory services to clients they assess, their credentialed team members can offer advisory guidance to clients for whom they are NOT performing an assessment. This prevents conflict of interest and allows for a truly independent perspective on your compliance posture. You gain the advantage of a C3PAO team’s experience in helping you identify potential vulnerabilities and areas for improvement. This objectivity is essential for building a robust and sustainable security program.
Key Qualities to Look for in an Advisor
When selecting an advisor, prioritize the following:
- Assessor credentials: Evidence of formal assessor training, such as completion of the Certified CMMC Practitioner (CCP) or Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA) exam. You will find people with these credentials on the Cyber AB marketplace. These credentials validate expertise and knowledge of the CMMC framework.
- Assessment experience: A proven track record of CMMC experience via the Joint Surveillance Voluntary Assessments (JSVAs) program is a great benefit, as is advisory experience with a variety of organization sizes, industries, and types of CUI. Find advisors with a breadth of experience ensures that you are most likely to get effective support in resolving a wide range of compliance challenges.
- Cybersecurity expertise: A deep understanding of cybersecurity principles, best practices, and industry standards beyond CMMC. This broader knowledge base allows them to provide holistic security advice that goes beyond mere compliance and helps you build a resilient security posture.
Avoid the Pitfalls
Remember, a company cannot both assess and advise you on CMMC compliance. This separation ensures objectivity and protects your interests. Additionally, unlike the need to use a C3PAO for assessments, there are no specific requirements to provide advisory services and it can be difficult to determine capabilities, experience, and ultimately credibility of firms offering CMMC advisory services as there are a whole host of new advisors that have sprung up around the CMMC ecosystem.
Beyond Compliance: A Strategic Partnership
An experienced advisor can be more than just a consultant; they can become a trusted partner in your security journey. Look for someone who:
- Understands your business objectives and aligns their recommendations accordingly.
- Offers clear, actionable advice that is easy to implement and measure.
- Builds a collaborative relationship based on open communication and mutual trust.
- Provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the compliance process and beyond.
Conclusion
By selecting an advisor with a strong assessment background, you're investing in a partner who can provide unparalleled insights and guidance. Their knowledge can significantly accelerate your path to CMMC Level 2 certification and beyond.
Think of it this way: Preparing for a CMMC assessment is like navigating a complex maze. An advisor with assessment experience is like having a seasoned guide who knows the shortcuts and pitfalls, increasing your chances of reaching the finish line successfully the first time.
Accelerate your CMMC journey with an assessor-trained advisor. Coalfire Federal boasts unparalleled expertise as a pure play cybersecurity company and one of the first certified C3PAOs. We have a proven track record that includes numerous Joint Surveillance Voluntary Assessments (JSVAs). Our deep understanding of the assessment process ensures tailored strategies and efficient compliance. Contact us today to unlock your path to CMMC Level 2 certification.
